Bikers have damaged sand dunes and grassland in Cymyran and Rhosneigr
Off-road bikers are putting lives at risk and destroying sand dunes on Anglesey placing the wildlife in jeopardy.
North Wales Police are clamping down on motor bikes and quad bikes being ridden illegally after dunes and grassland along the coastal footpath in Cymyran and Rhosneigr were damaged.
A biker was given a warning by members of the Safer Neighbourhood Team after being spotted in the area last week.
If the rider is caught again the bike will be seized and and the person prosecuted.
Officers launched a campaign in August 2016 to target the use of off-road bikes and quadbikes in the area which saw increased patrols and special posters distributed to camping and caravanning sites.
Sergeant Tracey Llewellyn from the Anglesey Safer Neighbourhood Team said: “The coastal path is a special site and these bikes are damaging greenery and destroying habitats.
“Please be aware that officers are patrolling the area, including members of our Rural Crime Team, and will deal with any offending vehicles.
“The use of motorcycles and quad bikes are a serious concern to the local community due to the lasting damage they cause to the natural environment as well as increased risk of injury to members of the public.
“These riders show little regard for the safety of others and we want to re-iterate that this type of anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated.”
Riders are being warned that police have the power to seize bikes and cars which are used in a way which causes harassment, alarm or distress.
Sergeant Llewellyn added: “Many are unaware of the responsibilities and laws around owning off-road vehicles. The most common misconception is that they can be ridden on a road or public land and that no insurance is needed. This is not true. You need insurance when in control of a motor vehicle in a public place.
“The only place where they can be lawfully used is private land with the direct permission of the land owner, or at an organised and supervised off-road centre.”
North Wales Police are also in contact with Anglesey County Council to increase the signage in the area.
Ann Harden, resident and member of Friends of the Anglesey Coastal Path group, said: “A large area of the sand dunes at Cymyran has been eroded by repeated motor cycle activity.
“This activity is disturbing and destroying the habitat of plants and wildlife which make up the sand dune ecosystem.
“This includes reptiles such as rare sand lizards, slow worms and adders, ground-dwelling birds including skylark and meadow pipit, numerous low growing plants and the insect life they support, vital for pollination and food supply.”
Anybody who witnesses the illegal use of motorcycles or quad bikes in the area is asked to to contact North Wales Police on 101 or via the live web chat, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. In an emergency always dial 999.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/fears-illegal-anglesey-roaders-putting-12471935
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